Dan Whitmer, Rewards Programs Analyst
@dan_whitmer
Buying airline miles is not a good deal in most cases, as they typically cost more than they’re worth. On average, miles cost about 3.5 cents each, while their redemption value is only around 1.3 cents. Unless you only need a few miles to top off your balance for an award ticket, purchasing miles isn’t a cost-effective way to save on travel.
Airline Miles Cost vs. Redemption Value
| Rewards Program | Number of Miles | Cost | Value When Redeemed for Airfare |
| 10,000 | $319.82 | $149 | |
| 10,000 | $376.25 | $112 | |
| 10,000 | $376.25 | $121 | |
| 10,000 | $300.00 | $149 | |
| 10,000 | $376.25 | $137 |
The prices listed above reflect the standard cost of miles when no promotions or discounts are available.
The best way to use your miles is to save them until you can cover the full cost of a flight. How you earn miles depends on the airline, as each has its own program. Common ways to earn miles include using an airline credit card, participating in dining programs, or booking with partner airlines, hotels, car rentals, and online shopping portals.
Sometimes, buying miles can be worth it. Airlines occasionally run promotions offering bonus miles or discounts, making purchased points a better value. When taking advantage of these promotions, it’s best to use the airline’s co-branded credit card, as you’ll earn extra miles on top of the points you’re already buying.
If you want to learn more about airline miles, you can check WalletHub’s full guide on how airline miles work.
People also ask
How much are 50,000 airline miles worth?
50,000 airline miles are worth $245 - $1,035, on average, depending on the airline and when you choose to redeem your miles. Airlines usually offer multiple redemption options, but you’ll generally get the best value when using miles for flights.
Value of 50,000 Miles by Airline
| Rewards Program | Value |
| $745 | |
| $685 |
How much does it cost to buy 10,000 American Airlines miles?
Buying 10,000 American Airlines miles will cost you $319.82, or 3.19 cents per mile, after a 15% discount. In general, buying American Airlines miles costs between 2.25 and 3.76 cents per mile, depending on the number of miles you purchase.
You can buy a minimum of 2,000 American Airlines miles and then purchase additional miles in increments of 1,000, up to 150,000 miles per year. To be eligible for a discount, AAdvantage® members need...
read full answer by Dan Whitmer, Rewards Programs AnalystCan you redeem United miles for cash?
No, United doesn't let you redeem miles for cash. However, you can use miles for free flights, combine them with cash to cover a flight, or redeem them for merchandise, gift cards, hotel stays, and more.
Best Ways to Redeem Your United Miles
- Award Flights: Use your miles to book flights with United Airlines to over 1,000 global destinations.
- Partner Airline Flights: Redeem miles for travel on Star Alliance and other...
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